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Golden Rock

The Golden Rock of Mount Kyaiktiyo is one of those places whose very existence seems to defy reality. Teetering on the edge of a precipice at the top of a mountain, this sacred monolith seems perpetually caught on the verge of toppling down the hill and into the valley below.

“The journey up to the Golden Rock is an adventure in itself, and the experience on the summit of Mt Kyaiktiyo, surrounded by scarlet-robed pilgrims, is magical.”

Tom Weston, Sales Director

Over the past centuries, the Golden Rock has become one the nation's three most sacred Buddhist sites - attracting devotees from across Burma and the region. The reason for this? Legend has it that one of the Buddha's hairs is contained within the small stupa that perches on top of the rock.

The Golden rock's characteristic goldenness is a surprisingly recent phenomenon - early photographs taken by pioneering tourists show the rock in its original black granite. In those earlier days the climb to the mountain's lofty and often cloud-topped summit was a significant sign of devotion in itself; these days the ascent is significantly easier, thanks to a winding road leading up from the village of Kyaiktiyo. Visitors can now jump aboard an open-topped truck and ride to the small collection of monasteries and lodgings at the mountaintop. The journey is not for the faint-hearted, however, as the trucks shuttling up and down the road deliver a decent impression of a roller coaster - hurtling around the switchbacks of the jungle-clad mountain.

Those who make the trip are rewarded by one of Burma's most impressive views: a spectacular panorama over the surrounding mountains with the sun glinting off the Golden Rock. Observing the glittering rock in the atmospheric light of sunset or sunrise is a particularly special sight, and one that has been credited with converting many a traveller to Buddhism!

Recommended Accommodation in Golden Rock

Weather in Golden Rock

The Climate Guide for Golden Rock is perfect for planning your holiday. Monthly weather averages give the best indication of what the weather is usually like for every month of the year including figures for temperature, rainfall and sunshine.

InsideBurma Accommodation Styles

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